How to Deal with Cable Twisting During Fish Tape Operation

How to Deal with Cable Twisting During Fish Tape Operation

Cable twisting is a common issue encountered during the use of fish tape in cable installation, especially in long or curved conduit runs. If not properly managed, it can cause installation delays, cable damage, or even pose safety risks. Here is a detailed guide on how to effectively deal with cable twisting during fish tape operation:

1. Understand the Cause of Twisting

Cable twisting usually occurs due to:

Friction between the cable and conduit walls.

Excessive pulling force or jerky movements.

Improper alignment of the cable or fish tape.

Coiled memory in the cable from packaging or storage.

2. Use a Swivel Head or Rotating Eyelet

Attaching a swivel head to the end of the fish tape reduces the chances of twisting as it allows the cable to rotate freely, preventing torque from building up during pulling.

3. Lay Out the Cable Before Pulling

Unroll the cable completely and straighten it as much as possible before feeding it into the conduit. Avoid pulling from a coiled or twisted bundle.

4. Lubricate the Conduit

Use cable-pulling lubricant to reduce friction inside the conduit. This allows smoother movement and reduces twisting caused by cable resistance.

5. Use Controlled, Even Pulling

Avoid jerking the cable or applying inconsistent force. Use slow, steady pressure to maintain alignment and reduce torsional stress.

6. Inspect Cable and Fish Tape Alignment

Ensure that the fish tape and cable are aligned straight with the conduit opening. Misalignment can introduce twist during the initial feeding.

7. Avoid Overstuffing the Conduit

Overcrowding a conduit with too many cables increases friction and the chance of cables crossing or twisting. Follow NEC conduit fill guidelines to ensure safe capacity.

8. Use Fish Tapes with High Flexibility

Fiberglass fish tapes are ideal for navigating bends without storing twist energy, unlike some metal tapes that may retain a coiling effect.

9. Use a Cable Puller with Tension Control (For Long Runs)

On longer conduit runs, use a cable-pulling machine with tension monitoring and automatic feed control. This minimizes pulling stress and twisting.

10. Post-Pull Inspection

After pulling, inspect the cable for signs of kinking, deformation, or insulation damage. Untwist the cable manually if minor twists are present before final installation.